Brussels: Train World Museum Entrance Ticket

If you’re headed to Brussels and have an interest in trains, history, or engineering, the Train World Museum offers a surprisingly engaging experience. Located in the impressive old Schaerbeek railway station, this museum showcases a fine collection of locomotives, artifacts, and interactive exhibits that appeal to both casual visitors and dedicated train aficionados.

Two things we particularly like about this experience are the authentic locomotives—including Belgium’s oldest preserved steam engine—and the chance to walk through the historic station building itself. These elements give a real sense of stepping back in time. However, a word of caution: the museum can feel a bit crowded and certain exhibits might be challenging to view clearly if you’re short on time or visiting during peak hours.

This experience is well-suited for families, history enthusiasts, model train fans, and anyone curious about the vital role railways played in shaping Europe’s development. The entry fee is quite reasonable considering the size and quality of the exhibits, making it a solid value for a half-day outing in Brussels.

Key Points

• Authentic Locomotives: See Belgium’s oldest preserved steam engine and other historic engines.
• Historic Setting: The museum is located in a beautifully restored, old railway station.
• Interactive Exhibits: The temporary “Draw me a train!” art exhibition offers creative engagement.
• Convenient Location: Close to Schaerbeek railway station, with easy access on foot.
• Value for Money: Affordable entry at $17, with a detailed app to enhance your visit.
• Accessible for All: Fully accessible to visitors with reduced mobility.

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A Detailed Look at the Train World Experience

The Location and Entrance

The Train World Museum occupies the historic Schaerbeek railway station, a building that itself is worth the visit. Opened in September 2015, the museum spans over 8,000 square meters of thoughtfully curated space, blending the grandeur of old railway architecture with modern exhibits. You can easily walk here from Place Princesse Elisabeth, the starting point for visitors, or arrive directly by train at Schaerbeek station.

For just $17 per person, the entrance provides access to an extensive collection of railway artifacts, including steam engines, carriages, and railway cottages. There’s also a handy free downloadable app to guide you through the exhibits, which is helpful if you prefer exploring independently.

Inside the Museum

Once inside, the first thing that strikes visitors is how well-preserved and large the exhibits are. The museum layout encourages a leisurely pace, allowing you to appreciate the scale and engineering behind each locomotive. We loved the way the 19th-century “Pays de Waes” locomotive is displayed, as it’s the oldest surviving locomotive in continental Europe. This piece alone offers a glimpse into the early days of train travel.

The museum also features models, photographs, and artifacts that tell the story of Belgium’s railway history. Some visitors, based on reviews, noted that the locomotives and carriages are the real highlights, with many available for close inspection from the outside. However, only a few are accessible from the inside, which some found disappointing if they hoped for inside tours of more engines.

Exhibits and Temporary Shows

A recent addition is the “Draw me a train!” exhibition running from September 2024 to August 2025. It celebrates how trains have inspired artists—ranging from comic strip creators to painters. Visitors can enjoy artworks capturing the beauty of trains, and even participate by drawing their own trains. This playful approach adds a fresh, creative layer to the museum experience and can be especially engaging for children.

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The Station and Surroundings

Walking around the Schaerbeek station, you’ll appreciate the architecture and the atmosphere of a bygone era. The station’s historical architecture adds an extra charm that complements the exhibits inside. It’s a good place for photos and soaking in some authentic railway ambiance.

Food and Breaks

Need a break? The museum’s on-site restaurant, Filou’Sophe, offers a cozy setting to enjoy lunch or a coffee. It’s a nice way to relax after exploring the exhibits, especially if you’re visiting with family or a group.

Visiting Tips and Practical Details

Timing and Duration

The museum recommends planning at least 1.2 hours for your visit, but many visitors spend around two hours taking in the exhibits at a comfortable pace. It’s open daily from 10:00 to 17:00, with the ticket office closing at 3:30 pm. During busy times, the museum can feel crowded, so arriving early or later in the afternoon might enhance your experience.

Costs and Value

At $17, the ticket is quite reasonable for the size of the collection and the variety of exhibits. The inclusion of the free app adds value, helping you understand the displays better. The temporary exhibition “Draw me a train!” is included in the ticket price, offering additional creative engagement.

Accessibility and Group Tours

The museum is fully accessible to visitors with reduced mobility, which makes it an inclusive experience. Guided tours are available in English, French, Dutch, and German for 110 euros, with groups limited to 20 people—perfect if you want a more in-depth exploration.

Parking and Transportation

While parking is available nearby, some reviews mention the importance of understanding parking fees. Visitors who used the parking next to the museum paid a full €10.56 for four hours, but museum visitors can pay a maximum of €3.90 for the same period. Be aware of this to avoid surprises and plan accordingly.

What Visitors Love (and What Could Be Better)

Many reviews highlight how surprisingly engaging the museum is. One visitor remarked, “We thought we’d be out in an hour, but ended up spending two hours immersed in the exhibits,” noting the good info and impressive locomotives. The authentic engines, especially the oldest locomotive, appeal to history buffs and train enthusiasts alike.

Another reviewer enjoyed the artistic exhibition, stating it was a wonderful way to see trains through different artistic lenses. The architecture of the station itself adds a palpable sense of history, making the visit more immersive.

However, some visitors expressed a desire for more locomotives accessible from the inside and better signage in multiple languages, especially regarding the clothing displays. Plus, parking costs can be confusing, so it’s worth double-checking before you arrive.

Who Should Visit?

This museum is ideal for families with children, who will enjoy the interactive exhibits and miniature trains. It also suits history enthusiasts and railway fans looking for a detailed collection of locomotives and artifacts. If you appreciate architecture, the station building itself makes the visit worthwhile.

Those with limited mobility will find the museum fully accessible, which is a definite plus. If you’re short on time or traveling with a big group, consider the guided tour options, though many will find the self-guided experience perfectly satisfying.

The Sum Up

Train World in Brussels offers a well-curated, authentic glimpse into the world of railways, housed in a stunning historic station. The combination of early locomotives, engaging exhibits, and artistic inspiration makes it a worthwhile stop for a broad range of travelers. Given the reasonable price and the quality of the displays, it’s a fine way to spend a few hours exploring Belgium’s rail history.

Whether you’re a dedicated train enthusiast, traveling with kids, or simply curious about the story behind Europe’s trains, you’ll find plenty to enjoy here. Just remember to arrive early, take your time, and enjoy the blend of history, engineering, and art that makes Train World a standout museum in Brussels.

FAQ

Is the Train World Museum suitable for children?
Yes, many reviews mention that children find the exhibits engaging, especially with interactive elements and miniature trains.

How long should I plan to spend here?
At least 1.2 hours, but around two hours allows a relaxed visit, especially if you want to see everything without rushing.

Is the museum accessible for visitors with limited mobility?
Absolutely. The entire museum is wheelchair accessible, making it easy for all visitors to enjoy.

What is included in the ticket price?
Your ticket grants access to the museum, the temporary “Draw me a train!” exhibition, and the free downloadable guide app.

Are guided tours available?
Yes, guided tours in multiple languages are available for 110 euros, with groups capped at 20 people.

What about parking?
Parking is nearby, but costs can vary. The museum recommends paying a maximum of €3.90 for four hours, which is less than some paid parking options.

When is the museum open?
Daily from 10:00 to 17:00, with the ticket office closing at 15:30. Closed on Mondays.

Can I see inside the locomotives?
Only a few locomotives are accessible from the inside; most are viewed from the outside.

Is there food available at the museum?
Yes, the on-site restaurant, Filou’Sophe, offers a comfortable spot for lunch or a snack.

Would this experience appeal to someone interested in art?
Definitely. The temporary “Draw me a train!” exhibition showcases how trains have inspired artists across different mediums.

Is the entrance fee good value?
Considering the size of the exhibits, the historic setting, and the inclusion of the art exhibition and app, $17 provides solid value for a memorable half-day outing.

In brief, Train World in Brussels combines history, engineering, and art in a charming setting that’s accessible and fun for all ages. It’s a great choice for an enriching, family-friendly experience that offers a genuine feel for Belgium’s railway past—and a few surprises along the way.

You can check availability for your dates here: